Although many of our residential customers in southeast Michigan choose to go with a brushed concrete driveway, some choose to take it up a notch with an exposed aggregate driveway. They desire an attractive color and texture for a stunning decorative concrete driveway. There are benefits to exposed aggregate as well as a few considerations.
Benefits of Exposed Aggregate Driveways
One of the main benefits of an exposed aggregate driveway is it is exceptionally durable and can last up to 30 years or longer. Exposed aggregate is great for extreme weather like we have hear in Michigan. It handles direct sunlight, rain, and heavy snow very well. It’s extremely tough and long lasting due to the lower concrete to water ratio that is needed to hold the aggregate in place. Once your exposed aggregate driveway is installed, it requires very little maintenance other than an occasional sweeping and a periodic resealing.
Exposed aggregate concrete has a certain amount of immunity to spalling, which can occasionally occur with a brushed concrete driveway. Spalling occurs as the porous brushed concrete absorbs water and melted de-icing salts. When the salty mixture expands it creates stress on the brushed concrete. Exposed aggregate already has the top layer of cement removed at time of installation, so it is less susceptible to the effects of water and de-icing salts.
A more obvious advantage to having an exposed aggregate concrete driveway is the added traction the textured surface provides. Some even refer to it as “slip-resistant” and is frequently used in sloped driveways. Concrete contractors can enhance traction by using different size, shape, and texture of the aggregate.
Because of the higher level of curb appeal exposed aggregate brings, homeowners can expect a 5-10% increase in a home’s value based upon a recent study. Should you decide to sell your home, chances are exposed aggregate concrete driveway will easily pay back your investment.
Considerations if Choosing Exposed Aggregate for Your Driveway
In the unlikely event your exposed aggregate driveway needs to be repaired, it will be more complicated than repairing a brushed concrete driveway. The biggest challenge will be matching and blending the patched surface with the rest of the driveway.
Because the surface is textured, debris and dirt can get compacted between the aggregate. Whereas with a swept concrete driveway that can easily be hosed off, an exposed aggregate driveway may require a brush and a strong hose or pressure washer. Just be sure you are not using a pressure washer or adapter that results in pressure that is too high, which could damage the driveway by loosening the stones. Resealing your exposed aggregate driveway every 3-5 years will help protect it from dirt and debris.
Are You Searching for an Experienced Exposed Aggregate Contractor Servicing Farmington Hills?
We are a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience pouring exposed aggregate and brushed concrete driveways not only in Farmington Hills, , but across Oakland and Macomb counties. Our crews are professional and experienced with pouring commercial and residential concrete driveways.
If you live in Farmington Hills or in southeast Michigan and are considering an exposed concrete driveway, we would be honored if you would consider Flat Rock Construction, Inc. We can be reached at 248-379-0250.